H.B. No. 4848 mandates that public institutions of higher education in Texas offer competency-based baccalaureate degree programs in high-demand fields, as determined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The bill introduces a new section, 51.3535, to the Education Code, which outlines the responsibilities of system administration in ensuring these programs are available. It defines "competency-based baccalaureate degree program" and establishes that the total cost for students enrolled in these programs cannot exceed half of the average cost of attendance at higher education institutions, with adjustments for inflation starting in the 2027-2028 academic year.

The bill also allows the coordinating board to adopt necessary rules for administering this section. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply starting with the 2026-2027 academic year. This legislation aims to enhance educational accessibility and affordability in response to workforce demands in Texas.

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